In beer there is freedom: Benjamin Franklin on the liberating power of beer
Introduction
Think of a scenario where you’re in a bar with your friends, enjoying each other’s company, laughing and telling stories. What comes to mind first? Is it the intoxicating aroma of your favorite drink or the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds you? Whatever it may be, beer has always been an integral part of socializing and, more importantly, a symbol of freedom for many.
One such person who believed in the liberating power of beer was none other than the polymath and founding father of the United States, Benjamin Franklin. In this article, we explore his views on beer and its significance.
Who was Benjamin Franklin?
Before we delve into his views on beer, let’s take a moment to learn about the man behind those views. Benjamin Franklin was a prominent figure in American history who excelled in various fields such as science, politics, and literature. He was a signatory of the US Declaration of Independence, served as a diplomat in France, and was the first postmaster general of the United States.
However, his ingenious mind was not limited to these accomplishments alone. Franklin also contributed to the world of brewing, which is why we’re discussing him today.
Franklin’s love for beer
Franklin was a man of varied interests, and brewing beer was one of his passions. He even went on to publish an essay titled “The Virtues of Beer,” where he extolled the virtues of this beloved beverage.
According to him, beer was not only a stimulant but also had nourishing qualities that could rival other popular drinks of his time. He even went on to say that beer was “a proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” Franklin believed that beer was an essential component of a healthy and active lifestyle, and he himself practiced what he preached.
The liberating power of beer
Aside from its nourishing properties, Franklin was also interested in beer’s social and psychological effects. He saw beer as a leveller that could bring people of different backgrounds and social standing together. In his own words, beer had the power to “unite mankind and break down the barriers of society.”
Moreover, Franklin considered beer to be a source of comfort and an escape from the daily grind of life. He believed that it could provide the necessary respite from the troubles of the world and create an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.
In essence, Franklin believed that beer had a liberating power that could free the mind and the soul, and bring people together under one roof.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin’s love for beer was rooted not only in its therapeutic qualities but also in its social and psychological impact. Beer was a symbol of freedom and an essential component of a healthy and active lifestyle, according to him.
Franklin’s views on beer continue to resonate with beer enthusiasts and historians alike, and we hope that this article has given you a fresh perspective on this beloved beverage.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Was Benjamin Franklin the only founding father who loved beer?
A: No, many of the founding fathers, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, were known to enjoy beer.
Q: Was beer popular in Franklin’s time?
A: Yes, beer was a popular drink in colonial America, and there were many small-scale breweries that produced beer for local consumption.
Q: What kind of beer did Franklin drink?
A: Franklin preferred the lighter beers of his time, such as the Philadelphia-style porter and English ales.
Q: Did Franklin ever write anything else about beer apart from “The Virtues of Beer”?
A: Yes, Franklin wrote many letters and essays where he mentioned beer and its properties, but “The Virtues of Beer” was the most comprehensive work on the subject.